[Biological activity of Spirulina]

Zh Mikrobiol Epidemiol Immunobiol. 2001 Mar-Apr:(2):114-8.
[Article in Russian]

Abstract

In this review information of Spirulina platensis (SP), a blue-green alga (photosynthesizing cyanobacterium) having diverse biological activity is presented. Due to high content of highly valuable proteins, indispensable amino acids, vitamins, beta-carotene and other pigments, mineral substances, indispensable fatty acids and polysaccharides, PS has been found suitable for use as bioactive additive. SP produces an immunostimulating effect by enhancing the resistance of humans, mammals, chickens and fish to infections, the capacity of influencing hemopoiesis, stimulating the production of antibodies and cytokines. Under the influence of SP macrophages, T and B cells are activated. SP sulfolipids have proved to be effective against HIV. Preparations obtained from SP biomass have also been found active against herpesvirus, cytomegalovirus, influenza virus, etc. SP extracts are capable in inhibiting cancerogenesis. SP preparations are regarded as functional products contributing to the preservation of the resident intestinal microflora, especially lactic acid bacilli and bifidobacteria, and to a decrease in the level of Candida albicans. The biological activity of SP with respect to microorganisms holds good promise for using these microalgae as components of culture media.

Publication types

  • English Abstract
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adjuvants, Immunologic / chemistry
  • Adjuvants, Immunologic / therapeutic use
  • Animals
  • Antiviral Agents / chemistry
  • Antiviral Agents / therapeutic use
  • Biomass
  • Cyanobacteria / chemistry
  • Cyanobacteria / growth & development
  • Cyanobacteria / metabolism*
  • Food, Fortified
  • Humans
  • Oxygen / metabolism
  • Plant Proteins / chemistry
  • Plant Proteins / therapeutic use
  • Vitamins / chemistry
  • Vitamins / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Adjuvants, Immunologic
  • Antiviral Agents
  • Plant Proteins
  • Vitamins
  • Oxygen